NCJ Number
100053
Date Published
1983
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses occupational stress and its management among corrections personnel.
Abstract
The prevalence of stress-related disorders such as alcoholism, headaches, and high blood pressure has been well-documented among criminal justice personnel. One study of corrections officers identified major categories of stress to which they were exposed. These related to role definition, the need for structure, personal safety, job-related pressures, personal isolation, workloads, interactions with inmates, job status and promotions, and preventing escapes. All of these stressors threaten the safety and security of officers and their jobs, with major problems centering on vagueness of roles, expectations, and rules. These problems could be ameliorated by providing clear role definitions, realistic training, and supervisors with improved management skills. Another stress reduction technique is the provision of counseling and referral services for officers and their families, such as those provided through employee assistance programs. Finally, stress awareness classes should be provided for new employees, experienced officers, and supervisors. It is concluded that correctional administrators must take active roles to protect their must take active roles to protect their employees from the damaging effects of stress. 6 references